181-185

Chapter 181: Cooperation?

The two had just entered the room.

Temari immediately jumped back, distancing herself from Itsuki, her eyes fixed on him with a look of caution. She said, “Who are you? What’s your purpose?”

“Don’t be ridiculous!”

Itsuki waved his hand dismissively. “You’re the daughter of the Kazekage. How could you not know who I am?”

Does Sunagakure have spies in the Leaf Village?

It wouldn’t be possible otherwise!

And of course, they would all be the trusted subordinates of the Fourth Kazekage, Rasa.

Because of Pakura!

So, even though Itsuki’s appearance had changed over the past two years, the higher-ups of Sunagakure would definitely recognize him.

Although Temari wasn’t part of the upper ranks, she knew more than enough.

“You're joking, right?”

Itsuki smiled, “Do you really not know who I am?”

Temari fell silent, her eyes looking at him strangely. “Uchiha… Itsuki?”

“The Shadow of the Leaf?”

Itsuki smiled but didn’t say anything.

He didn’t deny it, which was as good as confirming it.

“Phew…”

Temari let out a long breath and murmured, “This is truly unexpected. I can’t believe it’s really you. And you even dared to show up in Konoha.”

“Aren’t you afraid?”

“Would fear help?”

Temari replied helplessly, “The gap between us is too big. No matter how I resist, it’s meaningless.”

“Very smart!”

Itsuki smiled again and stepped forward. “However, you got one thing wrong. Your resistance wouldn’t be meaningless. In fact, it would make what comes next much more interesting.”

Temari was taken aback, and her cheeks turned bright red as she glared at Itsuki.

She wasn’t just any ordinary girl.

As the Kazekage’s daughter, she had been around many nobles, including daimyo.

So, the things Itsuki said might confuse someone like Sakura or Hinata...

But Temari?

Not only did she understand...

She understood a lot!

Those nobles lived lives more colorful than anyone could imagine.

They had experienced all kinds of wild things.

Bang!

Suddenly, Itsuki slammed his hand on the wall behind Temari, trapping her.

“Little girl, are you ready? If you’re ready, let’s start. I’ve been waiting for this.”

“You… you dare?”

Temari gritted her teeth and said, “Just try touching me, see what happens.”

“It wouldn’t be a problem even if I tried.”

Itsuki tilted his head, looking at her. “But if you behave and cooperate, I’ll consider working with you in Sunagakure’s plans.”

“Think of it as an exchange.”

“What?”

Temari was stunned.

“Don’t understand?”

Itsuki chuckled, “You guys from Sunagakure have mobilized so many shinobi. I can tell you have another agenda. If you don’t agree, I’ll just have to find a way to sabotage it.”

“Trust me, I’m quite good at causing destruction.”

“I’m the kind of person who’s better at ruining things than making them work.”

Temari: “…”

Was he complimenting himself or threatening her?

“Why are you zoning out again?”

Itsuki looked at her with a smile, “Now, tell me your answer, little girl.”

Temari gritted her teeth. “You’re so despicable! You’re a Kage-level ninja, the leader of the Leaf Village. How can you act like this?”

“I can’t help it. You’re just too beautiful!”

Itsuki shrugged helplessly. “You’re the Kazekage’s daughter, and I’m the leader of the Leaf Village, your family’s enemy. Normally, we could never be together. So, this is the only way.”

Temari was dumbfounded.

As much as she didn’t want to admit it...

But!

Hearing Itsuki’s words, a small part of her felt happy.

So, it’s because I’m too attractive.

Uchiha Itsuki…

What kind of person was he?

He founded a shinobi village!

The village he created, the Village Hidden in Flames, stood alongside the Five Great Nations’ shinobi villages, becoming the sixth great shinobi village in the world.

He was also a powerful figure who could stand shoulder to shoulder with, or even surpass, the leaders of those villages.

And now, this man, through threats, wanted to be with her.

Somehow...

It didn’t seem impossible to accept.

When she thought about it...

Uchiha Itsuki!

High status!

Strong power!

Handsome!

Great physique!

He was almost perfect!

Wait, what?

The more she thought about it, rejecting him would be a huge loss.

But if she didn’t reject him, something didn’t feel quite right either.

Temari’s expression kept shifting.

Sometimes shy...

Sometimes angry...

“I won’t give you too much time to think.”

Itsuki leaned in and blew lightly in her ear before moving closer to kiss her.

“Temari, you wouldn’t want Sunagakure’s plans to be ruined because of you, would you?”

...

The Chunin Exams arrived as scheduled!

Not much had changed.

Naruto’s team now had Sai instead of Sasuke.

Itsuki’s team consisted of Sasuke, Niji, and Sanji.

Konan didn’t come.

She had planned to, but after arriving in the Village Hidden in Flames, she was pulled aside by Kurenai, and the two, along with other women, went off on a sightseeing trip.

As for Itsuki?

Sorry, they knew him too well. It was better to stay apart for a while.

It would make things better for everyone in the long run.

Nothing else had changed much.

Three days after Itsuki’s arrival in Konoha, Sasuke finally showed up.

“Seriously, Itsuki, what are you trying to do?”

Sasuke frowned. “You’re the leader of the Leaf Village, participating in the Chunin Exams? Isn’t that a bit much?”

“Don’t think about Naruto!”

Itsuki glanced at Sasuke.

Sasuke looked away, “Why would I think about him?”

“Then you should go back!”

“No way!”

Sasuke quickly responded, “I must stay here to protect you. Your safety is now linked to the future of the Village Hidden in Flames.”

“Well, thank you very much.”

Itsuki rolled his eyes. “Let’s go.”

“Where to?”

“To the first exam.”

“Today?” Sasuke’s voice changed in surprise.

If he hadn’t been so eager to see Naruto, he probably wouldn’t have arrived until two days later.

Wouldn’t that mean he’d have missed the test?

“You’re overthinking it,” Itsuki shook his head. “Worst case, I’ll send Yonji in.”

Yonji...

You really are something!

When Sasuke and Itsuki arrived at the exam venue, they were greeted by a sight:

A guy with a bowl cut had just kicked Naruto flying.

Rock Lee!

“What the—!”

Itsuki was taken aback, surprised.

This scene… wasn’t Lee supposed to kick Sasuke? Why was Naruto the one getting hit?

“Naruto!”

Sasuke shouted, leaping into the air and catching Naruto as he tumbled mid-flight.

“Naruto, are you okay?”

“Sasuke…”

Naruto, with tears in his eyes, looked at Sasuke.

The moment he saw him, all his pain faded away.

He felt like he was completely revived.

“Bastard!”

Sasuke turned to look at the bowl-cut boy, gritting his teeth, “You…”

“Are asking for death!”

Itsuki answered for Sasuke.

Sasuke looked at Itsuki, speechless. “Brother, it’s just a sparring match. Why are you talking about life and death?”

Itsuki responded seriously, “For many people, even something as minor as digging up your family’s grave is justified. If you resist, that’s the problem. They’ll act like it’s the end of the world.”

(End of chapter)

Chapter 182: Bang! Awooo!

"You dug up my family’s grave, so of course, you’re in the right.

If I dare resist, it’s wrong, and you’ll be throwing a fit.

What the hell!

You think this is a novel or something?

Even Jiraiya wouldn’t dare write something like this!"

Sasuke ignored Itsuki.

Who would act like this?

This was selfishness at its peak!

He turned to Rock Lee and said, "I’ll remember that kick. I’ll definitely pay you back for it when I get the chance."

"Sasuke!"

Naruto, with tears in his eyes, looked at Sasuke and said, "It hurts!"

"Deal with it!" Sasuke roared.

Suddenly, Sakura appeared, grabbed Naruto, and threw him hard.

Naruto hit the ground, bounced, and then crashed down again before finally stopping.

Sasuke's eyebrow twitched.

What a violent woman!

Who is this?

"Sasuke, are you... okay?" Sakura, teary-eyed, sobbed, "I’ve never forgotten about you all this time."

"Mhm, mhm!" Sasuke nodded repeatedly and muttered, "Thanks a lot, but... who are you again?"

Sakura froze.

Was my crying all for nothing?

Everything was perfect—my emotions, the setting, the people, and the words I said. And then you hit me with that!

Sasuke, you’ve changed.

The Hidden Fire Village really is an evil place!

Sakura wiped away her tears and made up her mind.

There’s no way Sasuke can stay in this evil village. He needs to come back to the Leaf Village, to his real family.

And it doesn’t matter if Lord Hokage disagrees. As long as Sasuke accomplishes great deeds, the Hokage will surely welcome him back.

"Uchiha... Sasuke!"

Rock Lee's deep voice rang out.

His eyes were full of fighting spirit as he looked at Sasuke and said, "I’ve heard of you for a long time. My name is Rock Lee."

"Oh!" Sasuke stood coldly, hands in his pockets. "Sorry, I haven’t heard of you."

A flicker of joy passed through Sakura's eyes.

So, it’s not just me Sasuke can’t remember. He doesn’t remember anyone!

Wait, what?

Sakura slowly turned her gaze to Naruto, her eyes filled with a hint of killing intent.

Naruto shivered.

A chill ran down his spine.

Rock Lee slowly got into an attacking stance and said, "No worries. By the end of today, you’ll never forget my name."

Sasuke’s eyes gleamed with battle spirit as well. "I wouldn’t be so sure."

Itsuki chuckled from the side, "As much as I’d love to watch you guys pretend to be tough, the first exam is about to start. Are you sure you want to be late? If you are, you won’t get to take the exam."

Everyone froze and turned to look.

Sure enough!

A group of Chunin examiners had gathered, watching them with amusement.

One of them even held a timer.

What the hell!

The group quickly rushed into the exam hall, necks shrinking in fear.

Itsuki shrugged and smiled at the head examiner.

Morino Ibiki's face twitched.

Don’t smile at me!

You scare me!

Even the captain of the interrogation unit was starting to lose his nerve.

After all, this was Uchiha Itsuki!

Not just him, but the other Chunin examiners also broke into a cold sweat, rushing into the exam room faster than Sasuke and the others.

"This psychological strength..." Itsuki shook his head and said to Morino Ibiki, "Your interrogation unit could use some reform."

Ibiki suppressed the unease in his heart and replied coldly, "That has nothing to do with you, a ninja from the Hidden Fire Village. Hurry up and get in."

Itsuki laughed. Pretending not to recognize me, huh?

Fine!

I’m just here to have fun anyway.

Let’s see how Orochimaru messes with you guys!

Itsuki strolled into the exam hall. As he looked around, he noticed a particularly wrapped-up person.

Temari!

Her entire body was wrapped like a mummy, except for her head.

Sensing Itsuki's gaze, Temari glared at him fiercely.

This guy isn’t even human!

The past few days, except for meals and bathroom breaks, she’d been stuck in bed, completely dominated by Itsuki.

Her body was covered in his marks, leaving her unable to face anyone.

Temari’s legs were trembling.

Can I even pass the exam like this?

She glared at Itsuki again.

...If I fail, you’ll pay for it.

"Don’t worry, I’ve got you," Itsuki chuckled softly as he walked past her. "Just write whatever, and I’ll make sure you pass."

Temari’s expression softened.

That’s more like it!

"Ahem!"

Morino Ibiki stepped forward and said, "Now then..."

Itsuki lay lazily on the desk.

He couldn’t be bothered to listen to the nonsense.

He already knew the results of this test.

Having read the original, he was confident.

But!

Not everyone was so sure.

Two particularly sharp glares were focused on Naruto.

Sakura and Sai.

Itsuki watched with amusement.

Even if you replaced Sai with Sasuke, not much had changed.

---

Meanwhile.

Groups of strangely dressed people began entering the Leaf Village.

To greet them, Kakashi himself had come.

"Welcome, delegates from Iwagakure and Kumogakure."

Kakashi’s voice was deep, his eyes calm.

He didn’t particularly like these people.

But!

When it came to dealing with Uchiha Itsuki, it was hard for the Leaf Village to handle it alone.

At the very least, the Leaf couldn’t bear all the losses.

Since everyone had issues with Itsuki, everyone should share in the cost.

The Leaf Village had suffered enough.

So far, thousands of ninjas had died, and the village had been blown up once.

Expecting them to face Itsuki alone...

Not happening!

"Hatake Kakashi?"

A dark-skinned man glared at Kakashi coldly and asked, "Is the Leaf ready?"

"Of course," Kakashi replied softly. "Please, follow me, and I’ll explain the plan."

Twenty Jonin from both Iwagakure and Kumogakure had arrived.

Sunagakure had sent fifty.

Altogether, including the Leaf's ninjas, over two hundred Jonin were being mobilized against Itsuki.

Uchiha Itsuki had no chance.

Kakashi felt conflicted but remained expressionless as he led the group away.

---

Meanwhile!

Inside the first exam hall.

Tensions were high.

Morino Ibiki had just revealed his trump card.

The legendary, kill-or-be-killed final question!

It was said this question was so terrifying that even the First Hokage, Hashirama Senju, couldn’t solve it.

As one team after another left the room, choosing to forfeit, Itsuki smiled knowingly.

Naruto, it’s your turn!

Sure enough!

Under Itsuki's expectant gaze, Naruto suddenly raised his hand and then slammed it down hard.

Bang!

"I will never—Awooo!"

Naruto clutched his arm, jumping up and down in pain.

Itsuki grinned mischievously.

Morino Ibiki blinked and instinctively walked over to check on Naruto.

Cold sweat broke out on his forehead.

A cactus!

Naruto had just slammed his hand onto a cactus!

Uchiha Itsuki, you’re something else!

(End of Chapter)

*Chapter 183: The Second Round!*

It could only be Uchiha Itsuki—no need to even think of a second person.

Morino Ibiki felt both amused and exasperated!

Only Itsuki’s Flying Thunder God technique could silently and effortlessly move a cactus over, making Naruto accidentally slap his hand onto it.

"How old are you already? What’s your status?"

And you’re here, bullying a kid!

As expected of the Mokage!

Morino Ibiki took a deep breath and said in a low voice, "Alright, that little mishap—don’t worry about it. Anyone else? Does anyone want to forfeit?"

The group exchanged puzzled glances.

Looking at the bouncing Naruto, they suddenly realized that their tension seemed to vanish.

Damn!

This blonde kid has this kind of effect?

Ibiki waved his hand powerlessly.

He had no interest in staying here any longer.

Itsuki was a bit scary!

None of them wanted to stick around with such a dangerous tyrant.

And also—

He was messing with Naruto. What if the Nine-Tails gets involved?

What is the higher-up thinking? Don’t they know how dangerous it is to have Itsuki and the Nine-Tails together?

Little did he know, this was exactly what the higher-ups of Konoha planned.

"Alright, congratulations, you’ve passed. Get ready for the second round."

The ninjas: "..."

Sasuke and Sakura: "..."

Naruto: "..."

Hold on a second! What do you mean?

I got hit like that and now you're calling it off?

Where was this energy earlier?

Do you have something against me?

Naruto’s eyes were filled with anger.

At that moment, a figure flashed by.

At the same time, a voice rang out.

"I’m the proctor for the second test—ah!!!"

Anko illness had flared up.

Just as she was trying to make an entrance, she slipped and fell... hard.

She landed right in front of the genin.

On stage, facing the genin, who were still writing their exam answers.

The air grew still.

Both sides exchanged awkward glances.

Everyone felt the embarrassment, but what expression should they show at a time like this?

No one knew!

So they just kept staring at each other.

Ibiki silently glanced at the banana peel that had mysteriously appeared on the floor and let out a long sigh.

Great!

It was definitely Itsuki’s doing again.

A banana peel in an exam room!

"What are you all standing around for? Help up Proctor Anko!" Ibiki shouted at the chūnin present.

I might not be able to control him, but I sure can control you lot!

"Oh!"

The chūnin rushed forward to help Anko up.

"Ow! Ow! Ow!"

The moment they touched her, she cried out in pain, her face filled with agony.

"My back! My back!"

The chūnin looked at each other in confusion.

What should they do?

Ignore it? That’s not right.

Help her? She’s in pain!

If they don’t help, they’ll definitely get in trouble later.

Being a ninja is tough!

Sigh!

Itsuki sighed softly and took a few steps forward. With one motion, he lifted Anko up, saying, "When someone hurts their back, it’s best to carry them completely. Got it?"

The group: "..."

Do you think we don’t know that?

When lying flat, the strain on the back is the least.

But!

Who dares to carry this wild woman?

Anko was stunned and just about to explode in rage when she suddenly saw Itsuki’s face. Instantly, her cheeks flushed.

"Who—who are you?"

Itsuki gave a gentle smile and said, "You can call me Isuki."

"N-uncle?"

"Yep!"

Itsuki nodded with a smile.

"..."

"Ahem!"

Seeing things about to get awkward again, Ibiki quickly said, "Call the medical ninjas right away—"

"No need!" Anko immediately interrupted. "Let Uncle Isuki take me. Don’t bother the medical staff."

"..."

Worried about bothering the medical staff?

You’re something else!

If everyone was like you, the medical ninjas would be out of work.

"Proctor Anko!"

Ibiki said sternly, "You’re the proctor for the second round. Do you think it’s appropriate for you to leave now?"

Anko, annoyed, replied, "They can wait! I’m injured and need treatment, okay?"

Jeez!

What’s more important—an exam or a handsome guy?

Let those genin brats wait!

"That’s not okay!"

Itsuki chuckled and said, "We can’t delay the exam because of us. Here’s an idea, Anko—I’ll carry you while they start the exam, and then I’ll take you to the hospital."

Ibiki rolled his eyes: What are you even thinking?

This is Konoha. This is the exam hall. Such absurdity—

"Wouldn’t that be too much trouble for you?"

Without any hesitation, Anko agreed immediately.

"No trouble at all!"

And just like that, Itsuki carried Anko, leading a whole group of genin out of the first exam hall.

"This, this..."

Several chūnin proctors were left dumbfounded. "Ibiki-sama, is this even allowed?"

Ibiki muttered to himself, "This world... is insane!"

He felt as though he had just been interrogated.

The other genin watched in silence, all feeling like something was off.

Is this really an exam?

Why does it feel like there’s a romantic atmosphere in the air?

Only Temari glared at Itsuki angrily.

She had long known of the Mokage’s eccentric behavior, but still—how long has it been since you climbed off me?

Disgusting man!

Men are truly disgusting!

And to think you like this old lady acting young—ugh!

Temari stomped off in frustration, but as she passed by Itsuki, she let out an angry "hmph."

Itsuki winked at her, causing her to slightly calm her temper.

"I’m only getting close to him for a purpose. Yes, a purpose!"

Temari kept repeating this to herself.

Beside her, both Kankuro and Gaara were twitching with irritation.

What is going on with all of you?

Are you even still ninjas?

Dead weight like you, I wish I could just kill you all!

At the Forest of Death.

Anko, nestled in Itsuki’s arms, casually waved her hand, sending a row of scrolls flying toward Naruto’s group.

"Each team takes one scroll. Get another scroll, and you’ll pass. Go on!"

"..."

Is that what you call explaining?

A nearby assistant rushed over to explain the rules to Naruto and his team.

Finally, they entered the Forest of Death.

Itsuki gently smiled at Anko and said, "Shall we head in too?"

"Head in? The Forest of Death?"

Anko was momentarily taken aback and said, "No need. If you want to pass, I can help you find two scrolls."

In reality, who becomes a chūnin and who gets eliminated is up to the examiners.

No matter how hard you try, if the big shots don’t like you, you won’t pass.

This world turns in the hands of a few.

"No!"

Itsuki said firmly, "I want to go. I’ve heard the scenery inside the Forest of Death is beautiful. Will you come in with me?"

"Of course!"

Anko gazed at Itsuki, her eyes practically turning into hearts.

The two of them walked into the forest together.

Sasuke, standing behind them, opened his mouth to speak but stopped himself.

"What should I do?"

"Follow me!"

Isuki said casually. "Remember, you have to figure out how to get the scroll and pass on your own."

"By myself?" Sasuke protested. "I don’t mind getting the scroll, but will they recognize it if I pass alone?"

"They will!"

Isuki responded without hesitation. "Even if we’re not by your side, as long as you get a scroll, you pass."

"But if you’re not—"

"You can use Shadow Clone and Transformation Jutsu."

"...That works?"

(End of Chapter)

*Chapter 184: The Cold Lord Arrives!*

Sasuke, just a kid!

Sanji, a clone of Itsuki.

He silently watched Sasuke's dumbfounded expression, feeling amused inside.

Too naive.

Even now, this kid still believes that hard work will bring rewards.

That's completely wrong to the core.

In the current Konoha, no matter how hard you try, it’s useless. Neji's words ring true for today's Konoha:

People’s fates have long been sealed.

Neji himself is a vivid example.

Did his fate change?

No!

Did the Hyuga clan’s fate change?

No!

Everyone follows their own destiny—those meant to become Hokage will become Hokage, and those destined for obscurity will remain so.

From beginning to end, there has been no change at all.

"Anyway, keep trying!"

Itsuki smiled at Sasuke and said, "I have some things to take care of. Be careful. In the Forest of Death, no one can be trusted."

"Even you?"

Sasuke's words carried a hint of provocation and dissatisfaction.

Itsuki, without hesitation, responded, "Including me! Maybe the one who kills you... will be me!"

Sasuke was stunned.

The two entered the Forest of Death together, then went their separate ways.

...

Itsuki carried Anko as they continued forward.

"Where exactly are you taking me?"

Anko asked, feeling uneasy.

She had snapped out of her earlier daze.

She realized that Itsuki seemed to have a clear purpose, moving straight ahead in the Forest of Death.

"Of course, to see the beautiful scenery!"

Itsuki laughed. "What’s wrong? Anko, don't you want to?"

"Of-Of course I want to!"

The smile on Anko's face became somewhat forced.

"To see the scenery? What scenery?"

You've been trampling over every plant and flower along the way, what exactly are you looking at?

Loneliness?

Suddenly!

Itsuki exerted strength and threw Anko out of his grasp.

Anko landed steadily on her feet, holding a kunai in her hand.

Like a snake, she stood her ground, coldly staring at Itsuki.

"As expected of Orochimaru’s disciple!"

Itsuki sighed. "You almost hurt me."

"Stop pretending!"

Anko sneered. "If I could really hurt you, would you still be Uchiha Itsuki?"

Itsuki chuckled, lifting his gaze as three tomoe appeared in his eyes.

"Ugh!"

Anko's body stiffened as she slowly assumed a defensive stance.

"You... a genjutsu..."

Anko gritted out a few words through clenched teeth.

"That's right!"

Itsuki smiled warmly. "As an Uchiha, it's only natural that I excel at genjutsu, isn't it?"

"No argument here!"

Anko blurted out, then stared at Itsuki in horror. "What have you done to me?"

"Just controlling your speech."

"I'm pretty confident in my genjutsu. Since you know I'm Uchiha Itsuki, you should understand that."

Itsuki didn’t care, eyeing Anko up and down.

Not bad!

At first, I thought she was just a little girl, but now that she's all tied up, it shows.

Not top-tier, but pretty balanced. That "just right" feeling really catches the eye.

And besides...

If I remember correctly, Anko’s age, though younger than Kakashi, isn’t much younger.

Itsuki hadn’t specifically checked, but he guessed Anko was around 22 to 25 years old.

In ninja terms, that's pretty old.

Yet she still looks so young!

Innocent...

Oh no, I can’t keep thinking like this! If I continue, I might just have to deal with her here and now.

"What are you planning?"

Anko noticed the strange look in Itsuki's eyes and her voice trembled.

"Deal with you, how about that?"

Anko was stunned, then her face turned even more fearful as she realized what he meant.

"Speaking of which!"

Itsuki suddenly came to his senses and looked at Anko strangely. "You’re my senpai, aren't you?"

He had just remembered that the person in front of him was also one of Orochimaru’s disciples.

Like him!

They hadn’t had much interaction.

This was due to Orochimaru’s nature.

He wasn’t the type to encourage his disciples to get close and bond with each other.

After Orochimaru left, Itsuki retreated to the Uchiha clan, while Anko was thrown back into the village, suffering quite a bit of damage.

Konoha’s people may not be skilled in much, but they excel at blaming others.

Itsuki found this strange.

"I don’t quite understand."

Itsuki looked down at Anko. "You must hate Konoha too. So why try to betray me?"

Anko glared at Itsuki without saying a word.

"Sigh..."

Itsuki sighed, frustration in his voice. "Do I really have to use genjutsu? Come on, with a possible big battle coming, I’d rather save my strength where I can."

Anko still remained silent.

"Well then!"

Itsuki sighed again, his gaze turning cold.

"No choice. Goodbye, Senpai!"

"Hehe, Itsuki-kun, no need to be so hasty."

A raspy voice sounded.

Itsuki turned to see a shadow behind him, his gaze indifferent.

He didn’t know when, but someone had appeared behind him.

The figure had long black hair, golden slitted pupils, purple markings extending to his nose, extremely pale skin, and blue-green jade earrings hanging from his ears.

Just standing there, he exuded an aura of treachery, cruelty, and coldness...

The Cold Lord!

Orochimaru!

"Sensei has come after all!"

Itsuki's cold demeanor vanished, replaced by a wide grin as he looked at Orochimaru.

"Sensei, Sensei!"

Anko, even more excited, struggled to break free from her restraints.

To her surprise, she managed to loosen them a bit.

But unfortunately...

Itsuki glanced at her, and she immediately fell silent.

Orochimaru’s eye twitched.

He and Itsuki had once made a deal where Itsuki revealed that his own resistance to genjutsu was exceptionally weak.

Orochimaru had tested and confirmed this.

And Uchiha Itsuki was highly skilled in genjutsu.

A natural counter!

That’s why Orochimaru had kept his distance from Itsuki for so long.

"Why have you come to Konoha, Sensei?"

"Didn't Itsuki-kun also come?"

Orochimaru grinned. "Let Anko go. This little girl probably attacked you because of me."

"Oh!"

Itsuki turned to Anko, smiling. "For Sensei’s sake? You risked everything for him. Touching, but a bit foolish."

Orochimaru added cryptically, "Itsuki-kun, never underestimate the words of the Third Hokage. His power to manipulate hearts is extraordinary, enough to make anyone sacrifice everything for him."

Itsuki instantly thought of Itachi.

In the original story, Uchiha Itachi wiped out the entire clan!

Can you say that had nothing to do with the Third Hokage?

He was the Hokage!

Imagine if the Third didn’t know about the massacre.

Then it gets interesting.

If the strongest clan in Konoha, possibly in the whole ninja world, is wiped out without the Hokage knowing, should he still be Hokage?

Wouldn’t it be better to find a quiet place to hang himself?

Because he wouldn’t live much longer anyway!

Sooner or later, Danzo would have killed him!

(End of chapter)

*Chapter 185: The Gate-Clearers!*

Itsuki was a smart person.

He immediately understood and thought for a moment, “The Third Hokage is using our teacher to threaten or manipulate Anko into attacking me?”

“Will that work?”

Can Anko succeed? Or rather, on what grounds does the Third Hokage think Anko would obey his orders and carry out this suicidal mission?

Orochimaru shrugged and said, “If it works, great. If it fails, he doesn’t lose anything. Anko is just a special jōnin, and she’s my disciple. If she dies, he won’t care.”

There was one thing Orochimaru didn’t say.

Because this plan, as crazy as it seemed, might actually have a decent chance of success.

Itsuki’s preferences were well-known across the entire ninja world by now!

Who knows how many people were planning to use such a method against him?

Of course!

If Itsuki knew about this, he would surely shout: "Bring on the storm, let it rage even harder!"

“Alright then!”

Itsuki snapped his fingers.

Anko snapped out of her trance, stumbling backward, looking both shocked and delighted as she stared at Orochimaru, shouting, “Teacher.”

“Hmph!”

Orochimaru just glanced at her briefly before losing interest.

His true favored student was Senju Nawaki!

His most accomplished student was Uchiha Itsuki!

Though he didn’t particularly like Itsuki either, there were certain things this disciple had done that anyone would be proud of.

As for Anko!

Maybe he had been too lonely back then, or perhaps he wanted to send a signal to the outside world. That’s why he took her as his disciple.

As a result, he didn’t pay her much attention.

“Itsuki-kun, why have you come to Konoha?”

“To participate in the Chūnin Exam!”

That single statement left Orochimaru speechless.

Could this get any more ridiculous?

Itsuki, who was undoubtedly one of the top-tier ninja in the entire ninja world, taking the Chūnin Exam?

If Itsuki had heard Orochimaru’s thoughts, he would have loudly retorted that there was a kid with blonde hair in the future who would be the strongest ninja in the world, yet still had to learn step by step!

I’m not even close to that level yet!

“Teacher has his own goals, right? And I’m sure they aren’t something Konoha would welcome.”

Itsuki smiled and said, “I came here to help draw some attention away from you so that your plans can proceed more smoothly. Isn’t that a good thing?”

“In that regard, yes, it is.”

Orochimaru admitted frankly, “But I’m not sure if you’ll end up sabotaging my plans.”

The difference between the ninja villages was huge.

Even an ordinary Kage-level ninja on the battlefield could already make a significant impact.

Take Hiruzen Sarutobi for example!

He was a well-rounded ninja with no obvious weaknesses.

When he was young, he was a sharp blade on the battlefield, leading ninja forces and almost unstoppable.

There were also some special Kage-level ninjas.

They possessed unique secret techniques, and their mere presence on the battlefield was a huge deterrent.

They could take out an entire ninja army single-handedly.

For instance...

Aside from Hiruzen Sarutobi, every other ninja was like this!

The Second Hokage, the Fourth Hokage, and so on!

They either mastered Flying Thunder God or possessed incredibly strong physical bodies.

There were also secret techniques like Dust Release and Magnet Release.

Itsuki could certainly hold his own against those individuals as well.

Orochimaru had witnessed the hundreds-of-meters-long Fire Release Itsuki once unleashed, which could potentially wipe out an unknown number of ninjas in one move.

And then there was Susanoo!

If this guy charged into the battlefield during Orochimaru’s plan to destroy Konoha, it would certainly cause chaos.

The problem was that taking him out wasn’t feasible!

If Orochimaru weren’t afraid of genjutsu, he might have tried to fight him.

But unfortunately!

He couldn’t even get close to Itsuki.

Orochimaru pondered for a moment and said, “Itsuki-kun, let’s talk.”

“Alright.”

Itsuki smiled again, casting a glance at Anko, who, having just snapped out of her trance, now gazed at him with a lovestruck smile, mumbling, “Big Brother Itsuki, Big Brother Itsuki...”

Orochimaru: “...”

...

Danzo, leaning on his cane, walked into the Hokage’s office and looked at the Third Hokage, who stood by the window. “Hiruzen, everything is ready, and everyone is in position. But…”

“What?”

“I still have doubts about the Sand Village.”

Danzo frowned and said, “They’ve brought too many people. It’s not like them.”

The Third Hokage didn’t seem concerned and said, “I’ve told you, the Sand Village is here to eliminate everyone associated with the Fire Village. As long as Pakura remains in the Fire Village, the Fourth Kazekage’s position won’t be stable.”

“They have no other choice.”

Danzo remained silent.

The Third Hokage continued, “What can fifty jōnin do in Konoha?”

“Even if it were a hundred, Konoha could handle them.”

Danzo’s concerns eased, and he said, “That’s true. Even if all those ninja stir up trouble, Konoha can suppress them.”

Unless they join forces with Uchiha Itsuki!

But!

That’s definitely impossible!

The Daimyō has already given strict orders.

Unless they dare to defy the Daimyō’s orders!

And for a ninja, that’s an impossible thing to do.

Danzo’s mind settled. “So, when do we take action?”

“The third stage of the Chūnin Exams.”

Hiruzen Sarutobi calmly said, “When the nobles of the Land of Fire come, we’ll let them witness Konoha’s strength firsthand, and they’ll also witness Uchiha Itsuki’s death.”

...

As Orochimaru left, Itsuki’s expression remained calm.

The two had discussed things simply.

Orochimaru had candidly informed him of his plan to strike at Konoha.

Itsuki had no reason to interfere.

He held a significant grudge against Konoha, and if Konoha were severely damaged, the Fire Village would celebrate.

Other ninja villages would also turn their attention to Konoha, leaving the Fire Village alone.

In terms of resources, status, or overall strength, the Fire Village was far inferior to Konoha.

One of the main reasons the Fire Village had survived until now was the explosive tags, along with their elite fighters.

Geography also played a big role.

But!

None of these factors were decisive!

The real key was that they feared Uchiha's final retaliation!

Everyone knew how powerful the Uchiha were.

If the other ninja villages truly wanted to wipe out the Fire Village, Uchiha's counterattack would be too much for them to handle.

But as long as other villages had a detailed plan, it would spell disaster for the Fire Village.

With a weakened Konoha standing in the way, Itsuki would be quite happy.

So, Itsuki decided to add fuel to the fire!

Let the storm come even harder!

But!

“Teacher, your Reincarnation Technique is complete. Who’s your target?”

It couldn’t be me!

Itachi and Shisui were also too dangerous for Orochimaru to risk targeting them.

Sasuke!

Poor kid!

Itsuki sighed as he approached Anko, picking her up and muttering, “You’ve got to endure hardship if you want to rise to the top!”

“And besides!”

“If anything happens to you, Itachi will naturally avenge you. Teacher Orochimaru, don’t do anything foolish!”

Shisui and Itachi were the two toughest fighters in the Fire Village.

Itsuki was figuring out how to train both of them into even more aggressive fighters!

If something happened to Sasuke, Itachi would definitely drag Shisui along and charge at Orochimaru!

Tsk tsk.

That would be fun!

Teacher Orochimaru, would you be able to escape?

Itsuki turned and glared at the side, grumbling, “Stop hiding! How much longer are you going to stay hidden?!”

(End of chapter)